Ed White

Relegation-threatened Harrogate Railway have signed young striker Nathan Curtis following his release from Spennymoor Town.

Curtis started his career as part of the Bradford City academy and made one appearance for the Bantams as a substitute in an FA Cup tie.

Nathan Curtis

He was a prolific marksmen for Ossett Town at the start of the season, scoring nine goals before leaving Railway’s relegation rivals for Spennymoor in November.

However he has struggled to make the same impression since moving to the north east.

With top goalscorers Steve Bromley and Jack Stockdill - who have six goals apiece - sidelined through injury, Curtis is likely to lead Railway’s line against top of the table Warrington Town at Station View on Saturday.

“Nathan is a quality player for this level of football,” said Railway boss Lee Ashforth.

“He will offer something different for us.

"We have been looking all season for a target man to chase down the balls into the corner and get goals and Nathan has that ability.

“He's still young so there’s no pressure on him and it’s not like we have other prolific goalscorers in the squad.

“That’s why it has been important for us to bring someone in that brings goals.”

The signing is the first at Railway since former chairman Rob Northfield offered a cash-assistance to the struggling club.

The wealthy businessman returned to Station View in a support role to chairman Nigel Corner last month and said funds would be available if required.